Why is Christ's imputed righteousness essential for salvation?

The imputed righteousness of Christ is central to the doctrine of salvation. In Galatians 3:10-14, Paul contrasts the curse of the law with the blessings of faith in Christ. Believers are justified not by their own works, but through the righteousness that Christ achieved on behalf of His people. This righteousness is credited to believers, allowing them to be declared just in God's sight. Without Christ's imputed righteousness, no one could stand before a holy God, as all have sinned and fall short of His glory. It is through Christ's perfect obedience and sacrificial death that we can receive forgiveness and be justified.